Frenkie de Jong’s path at Barcelona has been a saga of unrealized possibilities, growing tensions, and a fanbase divided
between reverence for his skillful mastery and disappointment in his evident flaws. https://fandejong.com/
—
## The Unachieved Promise: From Ajax Sensation to Barcelona’s Enigma
The Dutch midfielder arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 as one of Europe’s extremely desired central orchestrators, following a Champions League penultimate stage appearance with Ajax that demonstrated his aptitude to dictate games with grace and vision. His €75 million signing represented a strategic purchase in a player prepared of securing Barcelona’s playmaking hub.
—
## The Fitness Crisis: Catalyst for Discord
De Jong’s 2023/24 campaign marked a turning point in fan opinion. A debilitating ankle injury sustained against Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde incapacitated him for six months. His premature comeback led to persistent relapses, with medical staff pushing for an operation – an option De Jong rejected in favor of conservative therapy.
—
## Wage Stalemate: Postponed Salaries and Commitment Scrutinized
The heart of the conflict lies in De Jong’s employment agreement – a relic from Josep Maria Bartomeu’s fiscally negligent tenure. To address COVID-19 losses, Barcelona postponed €17 million of his earnings, creating a expanding €30 million liability that grows through 2026. This economic model, combined with La Liga’s payroll constraints, hindered the club’s ability to register new signings.
—
## The Derision Episode: Trough in Player-Supporter Relations
The zenith of animosity occurred on November 26, 2024, during Barcelona’s Champions League fixture against Brest. When withdrawn in the 88th minute, De Jong was met with derisive whistles and chants of “Fora De Jong!” – a marked opposition to the applause given to Pedri. Manager Hansi Flick’s visible irritation with the crowd underscored the poisonous environment.
